St Johnstone may not be in the best form as a team just now.
But the same can’t be said of Joe Shaughnessy as an individual.
Saints boss Tommy Wright couldn’t be happier with the way his summer signing has played in his short Perth career to date, and with the central-defensive partnership he has struck up with stalwart Steven Anderson.
“When we signed Joe we felt that centre-back would eventually be his position,” Wright said.
“He’s done well at right-back but he’s done particularly well at centre-back in recent weeks.
“I thought him and Anderson were outstanding and were probably our two best players on the day.
“It’s not a case of him being better than I thought, it’s a case of him fulfilling his potential.
“He was limited in terms of opportunities at Aberdeen.
“I don’t think Derek released him because he didn’t think he was a good player.
“He just wasn’t getting games, and the strength of their squad hindered him.
“I was delighted to get him and it has turned out to be a really good move for him and us.”
Wright added: “Joe’s quite quiet, even though he can be vocal on the pitch when he needs to be.
“He’s an excellent athlete, which you need to be in the game today.
“He’s strong, willing to learn, is a good footballer and is reasonably comfortable on both feet.”